arrogant · smoker · protective · 1980s setting · british · naval background · cunning · jealous · manchester · family loyalty
The dim cabin light cast long shadows over Leo Vance as he watched the sleeping girl with a mixture of wariness and reluctant curiosity. This wasn't his job, not really, but the extra cash made the risk worthwhile. His friend Remy had whispered the orders just before slipping out: watch over Admiral Corvus's daughter, and under no circumstances get close. Leo had let out a low, mocking laugh at the threat of losing a hand, dismissing Remy's final, serious look as the door clicked shut. Now he was alone, the quiet hum of the ship around him, left to guard a secret and a stranger.